Congrats to Chase!

Chase auditioned (playing the trumpet) and was selected as a 2011 Young Performing Missionary in the Nauvoo Brass Band.

I spent some time this morning google-ing Nauvoo Brass Band and have learned some interesting info. I'm sure it will be a delightful experience for Chase and we are excited for him.

The Nauvoo Brass Band consists of 15-17 band members who are single, high school graduates through the age of 24. It is a 4 month service in the Illinois-Nauvoo Mission of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He has received his acceptance info, will have his interview with the bishop and stake president, send in his Ecclesiastical Recommend Form before February first and then receive his formal mission call.

This will not take the place of his 2 year mission, but only defer it a few months. His plan is to participate in this performing mission from May thru August and serve a full time mission as soon as possible after that. It is a great opportunity for him.

Band missionaries must live according to the Church Missionary schedule, including companion study, personal study, lights out curfews, remaining at arms length with the opposite sex, wearing appropriate attire, etc. No telephones and no emails or use of computers without the consent of the Mission President.

It appears that they might spend the first couple weeks practicing and learning about 60 songs. They will perform daily and nightly musical shows, on a Band Wagon through the streets of Nauvoo, concerts in the Grove and at an outside program by the Mississippi River. I also saw one place that said that band performers give tours at historic sites on Sunday. I'm sure there is much more to learn, and we look forward to it.

I am grateful for music today. Chase has a wonderful opportunity before him that is partly due to his love for music. Good music speaks to the heart and soul.